Photo Credit : Gulf News
The UAE has announced revised age cut-off criteria for school admissions starting from the 2026–27 academic year, standardising eligibility requirements across most curricula.
The Ministry of Education confirmed that the official age cut-off date will now be December 31 of the admission year, replacing the previous August 31 benchmark. The change applies to all schools and kindergartens that begin their academic year in August or September.
Schools that follow an April start will continue to apply March 31 as the age cut-off date.
Authorities clarified that the updated criteria apply only to new admissions. Students who are already enrolled will not be affected by the change, according to the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council.
Revised age requirements
Under the new framework, students must meet the following age requirements by December 31 of the admission year:
- Pre-K / Foundation Stage 1 (British curriculum), Petite Section (French), Pre-KG (other international curricula):
Child must be 3 years old - KG1 / Foundation Stage 2 (British), Moyenne Section (French), KG1 (other curricula):
Child must be 4 years old - KG2 / Year 1 (British), Grande Section (French), KG2 (other curricula):
Child must be 5 years old - Grade 1 / Year 2 (British), Cours Préparatoire (French), Grade 1 (other curricula):
Child must be 6 years old
Education authorities said the updated policy aims to create greater consistency across schools and ensure age-appropriate placement for students entering the education system.
